Hemorrhoids in Lubbock, TX
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Find a ProviderWhat are hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoids, also called piles, are swollen veins in the lower anus or rectum. This condition commonly presents when the vein walls in the rectum or anus come to be so thin that the veins bulge or protrude. Piles can present internally (within the rectum) or externally (on the anus).
Hemorrhoids are quite common. Almost three out of four adults will have piles during their lifetime. In some cases, a blood clot will form inside the hemorrhoid (called a thrombosed hemorrhoid) resulting in pain or discomfort. The board-certified GI providers at your local Lubbock Digestive Disease Associates are experienced in treating this common condition, as well as other gastrointestinal problems. To receive treatment for hemorrhoids in Lubbock, TX, please contact our practice to request a consultation.
What causes hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoids can be the result of several things. Reasons a hemorrhoid might occur can include:
- Sitting or standing for extended periods
- Being pregnant
- The natural aging process
- Obesity
- Excessive strain during bowel movements
- Family history of hemorrhoids
- Chronic constipation
- Excessive strain when performing a physical activity (like weight lifting)
- Chronic diarrhea
What are the common symptoms of hemorrhoids?
Symptoms of piles can vary depending of the area affected by the hemorrhoids. The most common symptoms often include:
- Pain during bowel movements
- Itching around one's anus
- Pain around the anus while performing physical activities
- Pain and/or swelling surrounding the anus
- Bright red blood in the stool
- Purple, pink, or blue raised lesions that protrude near the anus
What are the treatments for hemorrhoids?
Sometimes, smaller hemorrhoids can heal without treatment within a week or less. Your Lubbock Digestive Disease Associates provider may prescribe pharmaceutical drugs or recommend at-home remedies to alleviate the uncomfortable symptoms of hemorrhoids. If a larger hemorrhoid develops, medical intervention is available in Lubbock, TX and may be needed to remove or address the hemorrhoid. Common hemorrhoid treatment includes:
- Sclerotherapy
- Treatment of constipation or the cause of the hemorrhoids
- A high fiber diet
- Maintaining a clean anal area
- Application of topical cream
- Hemorrhoid stapling
- Draining a clot (thrombosis)
- Coagulation
- Tub baths multiple times daily in warm water
- Avoidance of use of dry toilet paper
- Ice packs to reduce anal swelling
- Surgical Intervention
- Ligation using rubber bands
Hemorrhoids FAQs
Are hemorrhoids preventable?
There are a few things you can do to help prevent hemorrhoids — or at least diminish their impact. This might involve lifestyle changes like:
- Consume foods that are high in fiber: This includes fresh veggies and fruits, whole grains, and other healthy items. If you find it difficult to eat enough fiber, a fiber supplement could be ideal.
- Drink adequate amounts of water
- Avoid sitting for long periods of time: Take breaks throughout the day. For instance, take a brief walk every 1 – 2 hours.
- Use the restroom as soon as you have the urge, rather than waiting until a later time
- Get regular exercise
Are there specific foods you should avoid eating if you have a hemorrhoid?
Hemorrhoids often result from issues such as chronic constipation, so implementing certain changes to your diet may be recommended if you have this GI condition. Our Lubbock, TX gastrointestinal physicians may advise that you avoid food items with little to no fiber. This includes foods like potato chips, ice cream, cheese, fast food, and processed foods. During your visit, we can provide additional information on what to avoid eating when you have hemorrhoids.
Will a nonprescription cream take care of a hemorrhoid?
Hemorrhoid creams purchased over the counter can be a great way to decrease common hemorrhoid symptoms such as inflammation and itching. In some patients, they might even help address minor hemorrhoids. However, they typically are not the most effective treatment method. Since hemorrhoid creams fail to treat the underlying cause of hemorrhoids, the condition will likely return without professional medical care.
How long does it take for a hemorrhoid to resolve?
The type and degree of hemorrhoid present will usually determine the length of time it might last. Mild cases of internal hemorrhoids commonly resolve within a few days to one week. Larger internal hemorrhoids, on the other hand, could take a few weeks to improve or may need professional medical care. External hemorrhoids generally need care from a doctor. Such options might include nutritional and lifestyle changes, over-the-counter medications, a procedure like hemorrhoid banding, a surgical procedure, or a different form of care.
Personalized care for hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids typically don't lead to serious health issues, but they can still be uncomfortable and wreak havoc on your quality of life. If you need assistance with hemorrhoid treatment in Lubbock, TX, our specialists are happy to help. Please reach out to a Lubbock Digestive Disease Associates near you today to request a consultation with a gastroenterology specialist.
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